Absence; the state of living away from a place or person. The nonexistence,or lack of, unavailability, deficiency, dearth, need.

It is in the absence, the nonexistent, the unavailability, the deficiency that creates a space, gaping open and yet dark because it is unknown.

It is in the darkness, where I shine my light like a beacon anchored in a grid of unseen brilliant light paths, all waiting and knowing that what is here right now is all that matters. I am here, and I am now, and I am love!

Maria Foti is a professional personal assistant and leadership coach with Proctor Gallagher Institute. She writes, creates and mentors leaders, teachers and parents in personal and professional development. She lives in Niantic with her 22-year-old son.

The Times is offering local readers a chance to share their poetry written during or related to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. To contribute, email times@theday.com.